Topic: CB750 valve cover: sealant question

[Tugboat]

Hondaman says to use Hondabond #4 on the valve cover to prevent leaks. Do you put it on the gasket itself? Both sides? I'm using an NOS Honda gasket, in case that matters.

[Henning]

You do not need sealant if you're using the proper Honda gaskets. Speaking from experience. Do not agree with Hondaman on that point.

[Tugboat]

Any other opinions? Gonna work on this tonight.

[seanbarney41]

If you got problems with damaged or warped sealing surfaces, proper and careful use of sealant (NOT silicone!) may save the day.

[PeWe]

Both my CB750, no sealer, gaskets only. Tighten 5Nm, retighten the day or 2 after.
(Abs. Max 7.5 Nm.)
Honda gaskets are best I have used, can be reused several times with same mating parts.

I tightened harder before and stripped threads.
The breather cover on top can leak with bad o-ring or not tightened. I forgot to tighten front bolt, it flowed oil when riding.

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

Only reason I'd use sealer is if there is apparent damage that is not easily repaired AND it leaks or to spot tack the gasket in place for assembly

[Tugboat]

Ended up cleaning mating surfaces with brake cleaner then installed it dry. Fingers crossed!

[MRieck]

 The CycleX metal core/foam cam cover gasket works and fits great. The foam compensates for the inevitable nicks/scratches. Normally I don't use aftermarket gaskets but this one really works.

[low-side]

+1 on the CycleX gasket.  Good price, great product.  Saves a lot of heartache on that job.

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

+2. I have a few of his gaskets in my build.

[Tugboat]

Well where was that suggestion?! I used an NOS Honda gasket.